What makes this summit different from other AI events?
Level UP! With AI focuses on operational advantage and real implementation rather than technical theory.The event prioritizes:
- Practical tools businesses can use immediately
- Real-world applications
- Cross-sector learning and collaboration
- Clear, accessible conversations about AI
- This is where strategy meets execution
Registration & Tickets
Do I need to register for individual sessions?
Attendees will be able to select sessions during registration to secure seats in limited-capacity workshops and discussions. Early registration helps ensure access to preferred sessions.
Is seating limited?
Select sessions have intentionally limited seating to support deeper learning and interaction. Early registration is strongly encouraged.
Can I bring colleagues or my team?
Teams are encouraged to attend together. Many organizations bring colleagues from different departments so they can learn about AI tools and discuss how to implement them across their organization.
Are tickets refundable?
Refunds are available according to the following timeline:
- Full refunds are available up to 60 days before the event, less a 25% administrative fee.
- 50% refunds are available up to 30 days before the event.
- Within 30 days of the event, tickets become transferable but non-refundable.
Logistics & Travel
Where is the summit being held?
The event will take place at:Wilder Foundation451 Lexington Parkway NorthSt. Paul, Minnesota
The venue offers a welcoming space designed for collaboration, learning, and community connection.
Event Experience
What should I wear?
Dressy casual, fashion-forward, ROCK your brand, whatever you want to call it. Whatever is your definition of you looking good, then wear that because the cameras and video will be rolling. Just keep in mind it will be a long day, so comfort is also important.
How many business cards should I bring?
ConnectUP! events are known for meaningful connections and energetic networking.With approximately 200 attendees expected, bringing plenty of business cards or digital contact options ensures you stay connected with the people you meet.
What does “radical hospitality” mean at ConnectUP! events?
Radical hospitality is central to the ConnectUP! experience. Attendees can expect:
- A welcoming and inclusive environment
- Thoughtfully designed spaces for learning, connection, and great food
- Opportunities for meaningful conversation across sectors
- A community where curiosity, questions, and collaboration are encouraged
- The goal is for every attendee to feel welcomed, supported, and inspired.
Community & Participation
The event mentions entrepreneurs from underestimated communities. What about white people?
Absolutely! The Mini Summit is open to everyone. The most important thing to know is that all the work we do is through an economic justice lens. You will be learning from leading industry experts teaching a range of subjects suitable for many stages of your business and you’ll undoubtedly walk away from every action-oriented discussion with good information.
You mention this event is for SECOND-STAGE entrepreneurs. What about people who’ve owned their business for five years or more, will we learn anything?
Absolutely! Most of the conversations are related to the back-office part of the business (operations, production, marketing, management, financials, etc.) that are necessary to grow and scale your business. You will be learning from leading industry experts teaching a range of subjects suitable for many stages of your business and you’ll undoubtedly walk away from every action-oriented discussion with good information.
How can I volunteer?
Volunteers play an important role in supporting the event experience.Interested volunteers can email [email protected] with the subject line:
“Volunteer ConnectUP! Mini Summit”
Please include a short introduction and how you would like to contribute. Volunteers typically assist for 4 hours and receive a discount on registration. Students are especially encouraged to volunteer.
I would like to speak at a future ConnectUP! event. How can I apply?
ConnectUP! welcomes ideas from dynamic speakers and subject matter experts.
Prospective speakers can submit their information through the speaker application form:
Applications should include a proposed topic and why it would be valuable for the ConnectUP! community.
Who can I contact with additional questions?
The ConnectUP! team is happy to help. For event questions, please contact:
Health and Safety Considerations
COVID-19 safety [UPDATE]
ConnectUP! Institute’s number one priority is the health and safety of our Mini Summit participants and Industry partners. Our goal is to hold a safe Mini Summit, recognizing it is not possible to remove all risk, in particular concerning COVID-19.
The ConnectUP!'s Mini Summit venue, Wilder Foundation, may change, update, or add requirements at any time as it deems prudent to best protect the health and safety of attendees and others, and attendees must comply with relevant policies and requirements as communicated by ConnectUP! Institute.
By attending the Mini Summit, you are agreeing to release ConnectUP! Institute and all its representatives, agencies, etc. of any and all liability.
Is testing for all attendees recommended?
Yes, if you have the ability and are willing, our strong recommendation is that all attendees, regardless of vaccination status, test for covid-19 before attending ConnectUP!'s Mini Summit, based on the results, follow the current CDC guidelines accordingly.
What is the mask protocol?
Masks are not required indoors in the city of St Paul per local guidance. Our strong recommendation is that if you have known prior positive covid test results or known exposure, then please follow current CDC Mask recommendations accordingly.
